Effects of Fiber Surface Treatment on Mechanical and Thermal Properties of Coir-MCC/Polylactic Acid Composites

Abstract

Biodegradable plastic reinforced natural fiber composites are finding applications in many fields ranging from construction industry to food industry. The use of natural bio based fillers as reinforcements in composites has several advantages over inorganic fillers including lower density, renewability, and biodegradability. In this research, polylactic acid (PLA)/ microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) composites were investigated as a means to reduce the material cost and enhance the material properties. The coir fibers were used to prepare microcrystalline. Subsequently, the prepared MCC was treated with 3-amiopropyl triethoxysilane (APS) to improve interfacial adhesion between fiber and polymer matrix. Treated and untreated MCC were then mixed at 0-10 wt.% with PLA by twin-screw extruder and fabricated into test specimens by compression molding. The effects of MCC loading and surface treatment on morphology, mechanical properties, and thermal properties of PLA/MCC composites were investigated. The results showed that the PLA with 5 wt.% of MCC exhibited the best mechanical properties compared with all prepared composites. Thermal stability of PLA composites were decreased with increasing MCC content but it can be improved by treated the MCC with APS.